Signal, the encrypted messaging app known for its strong privacy protections, continues to gain traction among cybersecurity experts, government agencies, and privacy-conscious users. Unlike other messaging services, Signal employs end-to-end encryption, ensuring that messages, calls, and user data remain inaccessible to anyone, including Signal itself. The only information stored on its servers includes phone numbers, registration dates, and last login timestamps, while all other data is kept on users’ devices. Signal also allows users to hide their phone numbers and verify message security through a unique safety number.
Signal has earned widespread trust in the cybersecurity community. Signal President Meredith Whittaker recently reinforced the app’s reputation, calling it “the gold standard in private comms” and highlighting that WhatsApp licenses Signal’s cryptography to protect message content. Cybersecurity analyst Rocky Cole noted that while Signal itself is secure, threats remain from potential phone compromises, which could expose encrypted messages stored on the device.
The app was founded in 2012 by entrepreneur Moxie Marlinspike and later received financial backing from WhatsApp co-founder Brian Acton, who contributed $50 million to launch the non-profit Signal Foundation in 2018. Acton left WhatsApp due to concerns over data privacy and targeted advertising, positioning Signal as an independent, ad-free alternative that does not track or monetize user data.
Signal experienced a surge in users in 2021 after a controversial update to WhatsApp’s privacy terms led to fears of increased data sharing with Meta. The app has since been adopted by a range of users, from journalists and activists to government agencies. The European Commission and the U.S. Senate have both approved its use for secure communications.
Despite its reputation for security, some analysts question its suitability for national security-related discussions. Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight, suggested that while Signal offers robust encryption, it may not be ideal for highly sensitive communications, citing concerns over the security of the devices themselves rather than the app’s encryption. This concern follows reports that top Trump aides discussed military plans using Signal, raising questions about the use of third-party applications for critical government communications.
Unlike Google’s messaging services and Meta’s WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, Signal remains independent and has pledged never to be acquired by a major tech company. Its open-source nature allows security experts to scrutinize its code, reinforcing trust in its encryption. While no platform is entirely immune to security threats, Signal continues to set the standard for privacy-focused messaging, providing a vital tool for those seeking secure and independent communication.
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